Classroom Tech Setup Checklist

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About This Checklist

Setting up a computer lab or tech-enabled classroom is about much more than buying computers. This checklist covers every area you need to think about — adapted for Zambian schools, where power and connectivity are often the biggest challenges.

1. Power

□ Reliable electrical supply to the room (or solar backup)
□ Enough power outlets for all workstations (calculate: one per computer + extras for peripherals)
□ Surge protectors on every outlet — power surges are common and destroy equipment
□ Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) for the server or main teacher workstation
□ Backup power plan: generator, solar inverter, or battery bank for critical equipment

2. Networking and Internet

□ Reliable internet connection (fibre where available; LTE/4G router as backup)
□ Wi-Fi router or access point with sufficient range for the entire room
□ Ethernet cables and a switch for wired connections (more reliable than Wi-Fi for desktops)
□ Network security: change default router passwords, enable WPA3 or WPA2 encryption
□ Content filtering or safe search enabled for student safety

3. Hardware

□ Computers: desktops, laptops, or thin clients (minimum spec: 4 GB RAM, 128 GB storage)
□ Monitors, keyboards, and mice for each workstation (wired is more durable than wireless)
□ Projector or large screen for the teacher to demonstrate
□ Printer (consider a network printer so all workstations can use it)
□ Speakers for audio content

4. Furniture and Layout

□ Desks or tables deep enough for a monitor, keyboard, and notebook
□ Chairs at the right height for students
□ Cable management — loose cables are a safety hazard and look unprofessional
□ Layout that lets the teacher see all screens from one position
□ Adequate lighting — not too bright (glare on screens) and not too dim
□ Ventilation or fans — computers generate heat

5. Security

□ Lockable doors and windows (computer labs are theft targets)
□ Security grilles or bars on windows
□ Cable locks or fixed mounts for computers
□ Fire extinguisher rated for electrical fires
□ Insurance for the equipment

6. Software and Maintenance

□ Operating system installed and updated on all machines
□ Essential software: web browser, office suite (Google Workspace or LibreOffice), antivirus
□ Standard user accounts for students (not administrator accounts)
□ Maintenance schedule: who cleans computers, updates software, checks for issues?
□ Spare parts inventory: extra keyboards, mice, cables, a spare power supply
□ IT support contact — who do you call when something breaks?

Need Help Setting Up?

DLC specialises in installing and maintaining school digital labs. We handle the complete setup — from power and networking to hardware and software — so you can focus on teaching. Learn more about our School Digital Labs or request a quote.